FNB Varsity Cup Women Players That Impressed - Round 5

FNB UP-Tuks Women once again showed their resilience, fighting back to claim a narrow 32-31 win and remain at the summit of the FNB Varsity Cup Women standings. The FNB UFH Baby Blues rose to the occasion with a crucial victory over FNB UJ to book their place in the semi-finals. Meanwhile, in Pietermaritzburg, FNB UKZN Women delivered a commanding home performance to comfortably overcome FNB Maties Women.

Here is our selection for standout players from round 5.

Ox Xholi (FNB UP-Tuks Women)

The log leaders FNB UP-Tuks Women found themselves wandering in the last round of the group stages colliding with UWC. The Stripe Generation went to halftime down by 19 points. Ox Xholi was the substitute Lizanne Jacobs needed to turn the deficit around. Powerful in the scrums and outstanding ball carries, Xholi gave the home side the confidence and dominance they needed to remain unbeaten.

Outstanding at breakdowns, Xholi became the X-factor the Tuks side needed. Setting up Abigail de Jager with a powerful carry who dotted down for a POR. Xholi wasn’t done turning the tables around for Tuks as she went on to score a try herself. Xholi was at the thick of things ensuring Tuks remain in contest.

Thokozani Sikela (FNB UFH Women)

Thokozani Sikela delivered an outstanding all-round performance. Her contribution was marked by bone-crunching tackles, exceptional ball handling, strong carries, and unwavering work rate. Demonstrating true leadership and composure, she inspired her team and played a pivotal role in the victory.

Sphesihle Fihlela (FNB UKZN Women)

She was the standout performer in FNB UKZN Women’s dominant 46-7 victory, delivering an all-round display that proved decisive. Her accuracy from the tee ensured UKZN maximised their scoring opportunities, while her try capped off a performance filled with composure and control. Beyond her points tally, Fihlela dictated the tempo of the game, linking play effectively and maintaining pressure on the opposition throughout. Her calm decision-making and consistency under pressure allowed UKZN to build and sustain their commanding lead, making her influence felt in every phase of play. It was a performance that not only highlighted her individual quality but also underlined her importance to the team, fully justifying her recognition as FNB Player of the Match.